The standbys.

For 2015, Sidi's old standbys, the Genius Fit Carbon Shoes, return virtually unchanged from their previous iteration. The predecessors of these shoes have been with us throughout our entire cycling careers and, with the option of replacing all the hardware — from the heel pad to the buckle — the latest bearers of the Genius standard are sure to enjoy the same longevity.

The Genius Fits use Sidi's beloved ratcheting buckle for retention. Is "beloved" to strong of a word to describe fastening devices on cycling shoes? Maybe. But after tens or even hundreds of thousands of miles together, we suggest that the average cyclist's bond with Sidi's buckle system is more than simply utilitarian. With wire dials (originally a Sidi innovation in the early 80s) and laces enjoying a fashionable renaissance in the peloton, it's easy to lose sight of the fact that virtually any cyclist pedaling in anger during the past three decades relied almost exclusively on this buckle—or a buckle largely based on it—to fasten their cycling shoes. So "beloved"? Yeah, we're comfortable with it.

Given the buckle's history, you're no doubt familiar with its micro-adjustment operation, which lets you vary strap pressure to nail the perfect fit, every time. The Soft Arch Compression Strap evenly spreads the upward stroke pedaling forces across the top of your foot while also alleviating the discomfort of over-tightening. The mid- and forefoot fit is managed by a pair of standard Sidi hook-and-loop straps that feature an additional strip of polymer teeth to ensure secure locking that persists long after the hook-and-loop filaments have been blunted down to wilted, apparently useless shadows of their former selves.

The uppers' mesh-ventilated Technomicro material is water-repellent, quick-drying, and breathable as well as abrasion- and mildew-resistant for comfort that lasts throughout your ride. It also resists stretching, so the precise fit of the fastening buckle won't be compromised during long days and hard efforts. If you've ever lost a buckle to a crash, then you'll also be happy to know that all of the upper's hardware is also replaceable.

The Millennium 4 Carbon Composite outsole isn't of the current crop of full-carbon that now defines the $200 shoe range. Instead, it's a nylon matrix shot through with carbon fiber, blending weight, stiffness, and price in a sole that's as ready to race as it is to spin through a charity ride century. It also resists warping due to humidity, heat, and age, so you'll be wearing the these long after you've worn out and replaced the heel pad. The important takeaway here is that, for all those years we've been relying on Sidi's buckle to keep our feet strapped to our shoes' soles, this has been the sole we've been strapped to. Comfort, stiffness, durability: it's all there. We know because we've tested it for years on end, so all of the above isn't just catalogue palaver, it's a reflection of our experience.

The classic cycling shoes we've all raced and trained on

Proven stiffness and durability of the Millenium 4 outsole

Synthetic uppers conform to your foot without getting sloppy

Traditional buckle and strap fastening system

Sidi's Genius line largely defined the course of cycling shoe innovation for the past few decades

What do you think about this product?

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>Rating: 5

June 4, 2020

Make these your next shoes

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

Runs small

Size Bought

42.5

Height

5` 10"

Weight

165 lbs

First pair of biking shoes and I am blown away. Lightweight, comfortable, and snug fit. Exactly what I was looking for and will definitely be buying another pair once I wear these out. Ordered two pair because I was unsure of sizing, ended up going with the pair up a half size.

Matthew S.

>Rating: 5

February 4, 2020

True to size

Fit:

True to size

My main concern in trying a SIDI shoe was that the reviews are all over the place on reports of their accuracy in sizing.
I've used Shimano shoes for 12 years, in part, because I can rely on their fit being consistent every time..
I just got these SIDI Genius 7's and their size 46 is spot-on. They're a true size 46 (a US 11.5 regular width). Or at least SIDI's 46 is equivalent to Shimano's 46. No squeeze. No pinch.
I'd wear them as slippers if I wouldn't slip and break my neck. They're that comfortable!
That's all I can share for now. I'll let you know in 20,000 miles if they hold up to everyday riding.

Steve I.

>Rating: 4

July 5, 2019

Beautiful Shoe - Runs WAAAY Small

Familiarity:

I returned this product before using it

Fit:

Runs small

Size Bought

48

Height

6` 6"

Weight

199 lbs

I bought these shoes to replace a set of Garneau single strap Tri-style shoes. Both the Sidi shoes and the Garneau shoes are size 48. The Sidi shoe runs way small for me in that size. Very disappointed since I love the look, style and quality of the Sidi shoe. Unfortunately, I will have to return these shoes. If you adjust your size preference to the smaller Sidi fit these are some nice looking well made shoes.

William L.

>Rating: 3

August 7, 2018

Shame about the tongue

Familiarity:

I returned this product before using it

Fit:

Runs small

Size Bought

44.5

Height

6` 0"

Weight

165 lbs

I found these are small on the fitting - The EU size is the same as my Giro's yet the US size is only a 10.25 rather than 10.75, the clincher for me was the inflexibility and lack of comfort around the tongue and how it dug into my ankle. Shame - I was so hoping for a great fit! They look great! They felt like they were quality made items just not for me!

Andrew M.

yourDisplayName

April 18, 2020

Never had a problem with rongue on my 3rd set SiDi Carbons in 20 years? size 42.5 perfit fit everytime!

yourDisplayName

April 18, 2020

Never had a problem with Tongue, on my 3rd set Sidi Megas Carbons in 20 years? size 42.5 perfit fit everytime!

>Rating: 5

June 11, 2018

Perfect for big feet

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

49

Height

6` 4"

Weight

193 lbs

I wear a size 14 Nike running shoe and have a hard time finding a riding shoe that fits well EXCEPT for Sidi. I wish they made the higher models in size 49, but the Genius fit well, snug up to my foot perfect, and last several years. They're just a great shoe.

Dennis B.

>Rating: 4

February 2, 2018

Get the "Magnum" version for wide feet

Familiarity:

I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

Size 45

Height

5` 10"

Weight

170 lbs

After a dozen years and many thousands of miles my original Sidis were worn out, so I checked out the current marketplace in the $250 price range and found nothing sufficiently compelling to switch to. I ordered Sidi's Genius 7 Magnum, which suits riders with feet that are wide relative to their length. (See comparison photo.)
When my new Genius 7s arrived, complete with comprehensive user guide (a rarity these days), I inspected them closely and marveled that such an intricate piece of footware could be bought for only $250. Especially considering their origin -- Italian shoes are considered the best in the world and priced accordingly.
To an old-time Sidi wearer, the new Genius 7 is reassuringly familiar and yet completely modern. The design that has powered uncounted pro racers had yet to be improved on -- though I realize lace-up shoes are currently in fashion. But I'm not interested in fashion.
I tried them on and instantly found them more comfortable than my originals -- I hadn't realized the old shoes were pinching my feet until I wore these new, wider Magnums.
I fitted my new Shimano SPD-SL cleats (not wishing to desecrate my new shoes with ancient, worn cleats from my old pair), using the 10 mm bolts recommended by the vendor for Sidi shoes. The 10 mm bolts screwed in perfectly.
Then I took out my Specialized SL2 and went for a short spin up the 3.5-mile warmup hill behind my place in the Oakland hills. The efficiency of the originals is enhanced by the carbon sole. Power transfer to the pedals is optimal, and the new shoes do not pinch or bind anywhere -- they are more comfortable than my old shoes. (After long rides, I couldn't wait to get out of my old, too-narrow shoes. I doubt I'll be having that problem with these Magnums.)
So to sum up: the Genius 7 is a worthy descendant of the Sidis that became the standard of the sport. A beautiful shoe to behold, it simply resonates with quality and sophistication, without being the least bit flashy. And it's an efficient shoe for sport riding. My only wish is that these shoes were a little lighter.
I've attached a photo of a new Genius 7 Magnum and beside it, also in size 45, one of my original Sidis. Though the Magnum looks a size bigger, it is not too big for me -- the extra width is what I needed and it delivers.

Johntechwriter

Michael M.

June 3, 2020

Your picture shows my complaint of the newer shoes...the anchor point of the ratcheting strap on the inside of the shoe (the left side of the shoe in the picture) flares out to form a nice little corner that likes to barely clip my crank arm from time to time...I went a long time without clipping it...but after I did it once it only got worse. I still buy Sidi...wish they’d change it...my preference is the older shoe if anyone has that option...if the old one hadn’t been so good I’d probably not be complaining about the new...

>Rating: 5

December 22, 2017

Love Sidi

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

41cm

Height

5` 7"

Weight

143 lbs

I have worn Sidi shoes for at least 15 years. They are great shoes. This new pair didn’t let me down. Theyvare true to size and are very comfortable with a stiff sole. I didn’t get the top of the line model as I am perfectly comfortable with two velcro straps and buckle system. I hope these shoes last 15 years like my previous pair.

Michael H.

Tom Anastasio

November 28, 2019

That's Italian

>Rating: 5

August 5, 2017

Great shoe!

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

46.5

Height

5` 10"

Weight

180 lbs

After trying 4 different pairs of shoes I finely found the pair that fit right and feel great.

Andrew H.

>Rating: 5

June 26, 2017

nice upgrade

Fit:

Runs large

Size Bought

46.5

Height

6` 1"

Weight

223 lbs

I have difficulty finding road shoes since I have a wide foot. Previously rode Shimano R088 until they were flexing like a pair of slippers. After a brief trial of the wide Sidis went with the regular and they are plenty wide for a EE width foot. The first thing I noticed was the stiffness of the sole which actually put some larger muscles in play during the stroke. I've put about 600 miles on them and they just get more comfortable. Based on other reviews I expect to have them for a long time. The runs large is in regard to width not length.

Michael D.

>Rating: 5

June 22, 2017

Just perfect

True to size...i wear an 11.5 and bought a 46 = Money. Great support in the heel, I did replace the insole for my specialized BG blue insole and its perfect for me. Yes I did read the manual and they say to "only use sidi insoles or they cannot guarantee function....". Risk im willing to take ;). Love the white color and its holding up just fine after 3 looong rides in Denver. Straps hold very secure, i think the rubber grip inserts between the velcro straps really do work, never felt like i had to re-do the straps after 4+ hours of riding. Solid shoe. One point to make, i had read online that shimano cleats on sidi shoes needed longer 10mm bolts or it would strip the threads in the shoe...i had/have no issues at all with the 8mm bolts that came with my ultegra pedals. Maybe thats old news?

Simon W.

>Rating: 5

May 5, 2017

Great shoes

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

45

Height

6` 0"

Weight

160 lbs

Lightweight, comfy, good straps/ shackles

William Krempa II

>Rating: 5

April 21, 2017

great so far

Familiarity:

I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Fit:

True to size

Height

6` 0"

Weight

160 lbs

after the first couple long rides the shoes broke in and i was comfortable. these are great so far and i have zero complaints, theyre stiff but coomfortable and seem to be well made. i guess time will tell...

William Krempa II

>Rating: 5

January 18, 2017

SIDI = AWESOME

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

Runs small

Size Bought

41

Height

5` 7"

Weight

134 lbs

I just bought myself a road bike and needed a pair of shoes. Relying previous experiences with MTB SIDIS I didn't hesitate to choose them again. (5 years and counting with the same pair)
Pros
They feel very comfortable (6 hour rides to justify this) They are great lookin (bright color to increase safety). They are quality crafted. Besides all that I got them for a bargain price in competitive cyclist.
Cons
None

Daniel G.

>Rating: 5

July 21, 2016

Love 'em!

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

46.5

Picked up the white/red/black to replace my 10 y/o Sidi road bike shoes. I loved my old pair because they had the 3 velcro straps, for easy adjustment.
I found this model to be lighter and stiffer than my previous pair of Sidis. I don't know if the stiffer feeling is a good thing yet, but certainly each time I wear them, they soften up and seem to mold to my feet.
This model seems to have less material and is better fitting than my previous model.
I wear a size 12 or 12.5 in regular shoes and got the Sidis in a 46.5. I can barely fit an index finger behind my heel when the shoes are on and don't find my toes are crunched.
I've worn these on long climbs, on long rolling rides, and find they get more and more comfortable the more I wear them. i have about 500 miles on them now and am very happy with the purchase. The white/red/black looks awesome and will match any kit. I contemplated the Yellow fluo also. I definitely would not recommend the all black color because that is simply too boring.

yourDisplayName

>Rating: 5

June 23, 2016

Great Shoe

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

44.5 WIde

Height

5` 10"

Weight

175 lbs

Excellent fit. Have tried many others, including the custom molded "heat-fit" Shimano, and this is by far the best fit for my wide foot. Literally no hot spots. I didn't think that was possible.
Did not need to order a size up since the wide version takes care of my typical sizing problems.

Scott E.

>Rating: 5

June 8, 2016

Great shoes

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

48

Height

5` 11"

Weight

155 lbs

I have been using Sidi shoes for decades. Whenever I stray I come right back to Sidis, and typically buy the most expensive model. Still my feet hurt. (I have multiple foot problems.) I cycle 50-60 miles/day and with sore feet, it is a challenge.
I ordered these shoes, but in a size larger. (I wear a 12/47. I ordered a 13/48.) They feel a bit large, but my feet are happy! I use Spenco insoles, which are better than my custom insoles from a pedorathist. My feet are happy for the first time in decades. I have to tug down on the straps a bit, but they fit fine. The key is both width and height clearance. And the color (screaming yellow) matches my jersey, helmet, and gloves. I ordered a second pair. These are cheaper than my other Sidis, and a tad heavier, but who cares: my feet and wallet are happy.
CC is a great company and I will continue to buy from them. Thank you, CC.

Ron G.

>Rating: 4

September 11, 2015

Upgrade

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

This were an upgrade, mainly got these, due to the carbon sole and the way they looked, they just appeal to me. To be honest I expected them to be more on the comfort side but that was not the case, they felt as comfortable as my SIDI Taurus were. The extra additional strip of polymer teeth to ensure secure locking does work well, I do love the ratcheting buckle, keeps the shoe in place, specially while sprinting, or pushing that climb. Overall, shoes were an upgrade on a few levels, an honorable mention was the extra ventilation made the overall comfort better, only reason I did not gave a 5 star rating was due to the non comfort notable upgrade on the foot bed, from going from a lover rank shoe to these.

Chris

>Rating: 5

July 18, 2015

As always Sidi makes a great shoe

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

True to size

I ordered these for my husband. He loves them, they fit like a glove and true to size. :)